Gaseous fluid vaporizer and mixer



March 10, 1936.

H. E. BUCKLEN 2,033,753

GASEOUS FLUID VAPORIZER AND MIXER Filed April 4, 1930 4 Sheets-Sheet 1 x5691 Z nzfezzioz" erber? E Baa/r4622 203272655 4; W

March 10, 1936.

H. E. BUCKLEN 2,033,753

GASEOUS FLUID VAPORIZER AND MIXER Filed April 4, 1950 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 j Z nzrczz'br herer? ElBuckZen March 10, 1936. 1- BUCKLEN 2,033,73

GASEOUS FLUID VAPORIZER AND MIXER Filed April 4, 1950 4 Sheets-Sheet 3 March 10, 1936. H. E. BUCKLEN GASEOUS FLUID VAPORIZER AND MIXER Filed April 4, 1930 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 EL7 E6 7' of such fluid particularly;

nates from the heavier oils. to become condensed Patented Mar. 10, 1936 UNITED STATES;

GASEOUS rum) varomzsa sun rnxsa Herbert E. Bucklen, Elkhart, Ind. I

Application April 4, 1930, Serial No. 441,453

v1:: Claims- (cl. 123-119) This invention relates to gaseous fluid vaporizers and mixers for liquid fuel, and more particularly to an improved means for securing a more intimate mixture of hydrocarbon fluid and air. a

While the invention ing applied to intake manifolds of internal combustion engines, it is to be understood that it is not limited thereto inasmuch as it may be utilized wherever it is desired to efliciently vaporize and mix hydrocarbon fluids for combustion purposes such for example as in oil burning furnaces and the like. v

When a mixture of hydrocarbon fluid and air traverses an intake manifold employed with mechanisms of the classes of engines above referred to, there is a distin t tendency on the part where the fluid origiinto globules of appreciable size, this tendency being especially great in the region of the manifold where the effects of friction .and cooling are most marked. Upon the feeding into'the combustion chamber of a mixture comprising such' globules, even though a sufiicient quantity of h-ghly vaporized fluid be present for purposes of combustion, the combustion of the globules is necessarily imperfect, resulting in a lack of eflicient combustion and an accumulation of carbon within the combustion chamber and associated parts.

Heretofore, attempts have been made to alleviate such'a condition but they have been only partially successful. The majority of the devices employed to combat the above outlined condition have been in the nature of variegated arrangements of fine mesh screens interposed in the intake manifold or conduit for intersecting the globules and breaking them up in the course of their passage through such conduit as they are carried by the vaporized fluid following. Where the screens have been positioned to extend transversely of the conduit, they only serve to break up the relat vely large globules into smaller ones but the resultant vaporized fluid comes through in streams of suchclose proximity to each other due to the generally fine mesh of the screens employed that there is a great tendency on the part of the resultant smaller globules to unite and reform larger globules. Thus while a number of the large globules are partly broken up initially, the fluid finally introduced into the combustion chamber contains a large portion of globules which are not minute enoug to a u e is herein disclosed as becombustion of maximum efllciency so that a relatively large amount of carbonizationis present.

In instances where the flne mesh screens are interposed in the intake conduit in the form of lam'nations in parallel relation with the conduit axis, the globules have a tendency to merely travel along the wire strands and emerge at the discharge ends of such devices inglobules of substantially original size due to the molecular adhesion of the particles forming the globules to one another. Here again the result is the introduction of a fluid into the combustion chamber of such a character that the resultant combustion is imperfect and deposits of carbon soon accumulate within the combustion chamber and the associated parts.

With the above in view, the chief feature of my invention comprises the provision of a novel means for the intake manifolds or conduits of mechanisms of the character described wherein the globules of the hydrocarbon fluid are positively and effectively broken up and delivered to the combustion chamber of such minute character as to insure perfect combustion of the fluid whereby resultant difliculties heretofore encountered due to carbonization are reduced to a minimum. To this end, I have found that by interposing metallic filaments of the character of minute shavings such for example as steel shavings or steelv wool, in the intake conduit or passage of mechanisms of the character above referred to, the globules initially introduced into said manifolds or conduits at the receiving ends thereof are broken up, or shredded and in this manner delivered to the combustion chamber.

A microscopic analysis of the characteristics of metallic filaments of the character of steel shavings or steel wool discloses such filaments as having finely barbed edges, the sizes and shapes of the barbs being variegated in accordance with the depth of paring employed to produce such' filaments. Such filaments are also usually of helical character, the pitch being determined by the depth and width of the paring employed in their production. 7

Whereas in the case of a smooth filament, a globule of liquid has a tendency to travel therealong as a unit or if intersectedby such a filament in transverse relation, the globule has a tendency to reform upon leaving the filament, this is not the case with filaments of the character of steel shavings or steel wool. The latter, owing to the barbs thereon actually break up or shred the liquid globule so that upon the encountering of such a filament by a liquid globule either lonplete vaporization of the globules and mixing thereof with air being introduced into the mani-' fold or conduit simultaneously with the introduction of the fluid hydrocarbon, is assured to a degree of maximum efficiency.

Another feature of importance in connection with the employment of metallic filaments of the character described, is in the arrangement of the filaments in a promiscuously intertwined loose mass wherein the apertures and interstitial spaces permitting the passage of air therethrough extend promiscuously through the mass. Thus the initial hydrocarbon fluid and intermixed air in passing through the mass impel the globules picked up thereby from the walls of the manifold or conduit through the mass whereby a relatively large number of filaments are encountered thereby assuringof complete breaking up, cutting up, and shredding of the globules. That is to say, inasmuch as there are no direct paths through the mass there is no possibility of one or more globules of entering the mass as such and emerging in globular form. The promiscuity of the interstitial spaces also produces a considerable volleying of the gaseous particles thereby insuring of complete vaporization and admixture of the carburated fluid.

A further feature of importance in this invention resides in the fact that by the provision of a loose mass of filaments of the character described, particularly in the case of internal combustion engines, the mass is adapted to vibrate under the pulsations of the engine so that the filaments have individual movement relative to one another. Such movement coupled with the large number of filaments employed prevents the passage through the mass of globules which might otherwise obtain uninterrupted passage, this entirely eliminates the emergence of globules other than in finely and minutely shredded condition.

In carrying out the invention in accordance with the above outlined principles, I have provided various forms of intake manifolds or conduits of novel construction and arrangement of parts particularly applicable to internal combustion engines.

Still another feature of my present invention resides in a novel means for providing a continuous and rapid movement of the gaseous fuel mixture through the mixing device. In an automobile engine, the velocity of movement of the gas through the intake manifold and associated conduits, varies greatly from time to time depending upon the speed of the engine and the load under which it is operating. Naturally, the shredding of liquid or gaseous globules in passing through the mass of intertwined filaments increases with the velocity of the gas in passing through the same.

I have therefore provided, in one form of my invention, an endless circulating conduit containing my improved mixing device, and through which conduit I continuously recirculate the gaseous fuel so as to pass it through the mixer at a high velocity, and to thereby obtain a thorough mixing of the fuel at all speeds and conditions of operation of the engine.

Other and further objects and advantages will appear from the following detailed description of the several preferred embodiments of my invention disclosed in the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is an elevation of an intake manifold for an internal combustion engine, a portion of the manifold being broken away to illustrate the position of the removable gaseous fuel vaporzer and mixer, the manifold; an elevation of an intake manifold for internal combustion engines, a portion of the manifold being broken away to illustrate the position of the removable gaseous fuel vaporizer and mixer shown in Figure 1 and, including an impeller for introducing the gaseous fluid charge into the manifold under pressure; 1

Figure 2 illustrates a modified form of intake manifold with parts in section and embodying my invention, the manifold being of the recirculating pressure type employing an impeller;

Figure 3 illustrates a further modified form of intake manifold embodying my invention and designed to introduce gaseous fluid charge to the body portion of such manifold when the engine with which it is employed is operating and further disclosing a novel control means for such form of manifold;

Figure 4.is an enlarged view of a portion of the control mechanism employed with the modifled form of manifold disclosed in Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a further modified form of intake manifold appliance embodying the principles of my invention, this form being of the recirculating pressure vaporizer and mixer type having a novel automatic control valve embodied there- Figure 6 illustrates another modified form of intake manifold appliance embodying the principles of my invention, the appliance being in the nature of an attachment adaptable to intake manifolds of present construction and having an impeller for introducing a charge under pressure to the combustion chambers of an engine when it is operating and having a novel control valve for permitting the introduction of a charge upon starting of the engine;

Figure '7 is an enlarged detail view illustrating the control valve mechanism shown in Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a plan view of a fragmentary portion of an engine block with an intake manifold of novel construction illustrated more or less diagrammatically, and embodying the principles of my invention as applied to the block and having a novel control valve construction and common operating means therefor for each of the outlet ports of such manifold, illustrating such portions of the manifold in section; and

Figure 9 is a side elevation of a fragmentary portion of an engine block showing a manifold of the character disclosed in Figure 8 applied to the block and illustrating parts of the manifold in section.

As hereinbefore stated, the main feature of this invention is the introduction of the novel gaseous fluid vaporizer and mixer comprising metallic filaments preferably of the form of steel shavings or steel wool, interposed in the intake manifold or other suitable conduit designed to conduct gaseous fluid to a combustion chamber, with a view to completely break up or shred globules of hydrocarbon fluid previously formed and which may collect or accumulate in such conduit and which would otherwise be introduced into the combustion chamber in such form as to result in imperfect combustion.

In Figures 1 and 2, I have illustrated one application of the instant invention. In this case I have provided an intake manifold having a substantially cylindrical body portion IIO open at both ends and being provided with a centrally disposed inlet port III and six outlet ports II2, the manifold'being adapted to be employed with 'a six cylinder engine. It will be, of course, un-

derstood that the number of outlet ports may vary with the number of conduits required by the particular engine to which the device is to be applied. The vaporizer and mixer, generally indicated at H3, in this case comprises a cylindrical reticulated coarse mesh screen container I ll filled with a promiscuously intertwined loose mass of metallic filaments I I5 either in the nature of steel shavings, preferably of the character of steel wool. Container III is provided at its ends with planar coarse mesh screen portions, which are suitably secured to the cylindrical body portion thereof. The ends of the body 90 of the manifold are provided with removable end closures IIO adapted to snugly fit against the inner periphery of the body portion I I0. Preferably, the

end closures H6 areprovided with suitable means to frictionally retain-them in position at the ends of the body portion I I0. A suitable gasket may be interposed between the closure and the end of the body portion to insure of a tight fit so as to prevent leakage of gaseous fluid at the ends of the body portion 1 I0. At the entrance of the inlet port III, the usual butterfly valve H1 is I provided.

When the engine is in operation so that carbureted hydrocarbon fluid and air are being drawn up into the intake manifold, the condensed globules of the fluid tending to collect in the inlet port 9| are drawn upwardly toward the vaporizer and mixer 93 of the hydrocarbon fluid may not reach the combustion chambers or cylinders in globular form, they must pass through the vaporizer and mixer 93, and since this member comprises a plurality of promiscuously intertwined metallic filaments in a loose mass it will be at once apparent that each globule passing through the member will collide with a plurality of the filaments.

Due to the irregularity of these filaments and their nonsymmetrical arrangement, the impacts or collisions take place in a promiscuous manner. In other words, no globule of hydrocarbon fluid can possibly pass through the vaporizer and mixer 93 in a direct or through path since the apertures and interstitial spaces extending through the loose mass of filaments do so in a promiscuous manner.

In many internal combustion engines of present day construction, the intake manifold is positioned in such a manner that one end thereof is usually in proximity to some one or other accessory positioned on the dash board of the I vehicle or the respective end of the manifold may be positioned in proximity to the dash board itself so that the end of the manifold adjacent such dash board is generally inaccessible for the insertion of a device of the character of the vaporizer and mixer H3. For this reason the removable end closures H6 have been provided. Then again some manifolds are mounted upon the right hand side of the engine while others are mounted on the left hand side thereof. By providing removable closures for both ends of the manifold body IIO, it will be at once apparent that the manifold may be mounted either on the the inlet port at a relatively high speed by the suction draft. In order that the globules right or the left hand side of the engine without impairing accessibility to the body portion.

While the vaporizer and mixer H3, and this is the, case in all modifications disclosed, is primarily intended for obtaining vaporization and mixing of the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid, it will of course be evident that the body of filamentous metal will also act as a filter. Such foreign particles as may find their way intothe filamentous mass must be removed when such an accumula tion is excessive. Thus by making the Vaporizers and mixers employed in each instance removable, accumulated foreign matter may be blown out by the application of air pressure thereto or the vaporizer and mixer in each instance may be readily replaced by anew one of similar character.

Intake manifolds of the construction disclosed in Figure I quite readily permit the introduction of the full charge of hydrocarbon fluid and air into those cylinders or combustion chambers which arelocated adjacent or in proximity to thereof. Those cylinders or combustion chambers positioned remotely from the inlet port of the manifold do not receive the full benefit of the charge. For this reason I have provided a suitable impeller or pump III! driven in any suitable manner from a moving part of the engine to accelerate the speed with which the charge enters the intake manifold body portion I I0, thereby considerably improving the amount of charge which is taken in by those cylinders or combustion chambers which are positioned remotely from the inlet port.

In Figure 2, I have provided a modified form of intake manifold embodying the vaporizer and mixer of the present invention and being adapted to efllciently distribute an intimate mixture of hydrocarbon fluid and air to the combustion chambers or cylinders with equal eflioacy whereby the maximum charge is introduced into each of the combustion chambers or cylinders so that each cylinder or combustion chamber receives the full benefit of the charge. In this case,'the intake manifold body portion I comprises a continuous endless conduit I2I having a suitable impeller I22 driven from the water pump shaft or other movable part of the engine, in terposed therein. The upper portion of the body I20 is provided with the usual outlet ports I23 while the lower portion is provided with the usual inlet port I24 having a butterfly control valve I25 therein. The inlet port I24 hasconnection with the lower portion of the body I20 centrally thereof so that gaseous hydrocarbon fiuid may be delivered to the outlet ports I23 either through the left hand branch of the body portion I20 or through the right hand branch. The impeller I22 may be interposed in either branch and for purposes of the instant disclosure I have chosen the left hand branch. The vaporizer and mixer in this case comprises a flexible reticulated coarse mesh screen container I26 having a promiscuously intertwined loose mass of metallic filaments I21 disposed therein. Inasmuch as the container I 26 is flexible, and the body portion I20 is made up of sections, it will be apparent that the may be very readily inserted into the upper portion of the body I20 and into the lower portion thereof with facility at the joints I28 prior to the assembly of the manifold.

In operation, upon starting of the engine in the usual manner, that is by energizing an electric motor which has operative connection with vaporizer and mixer the fly wheel associated with the crank shaft of the engine, gaseous hydrocarbon fluid will be drawn to the outlet portsof those cylinders or combustion chambers whose pistons are on their suction strokes through the right hand branch of the continuous or endless conduit I2 I As soon as the engine begins to run, the impeller I22 is operated causing the gaseous fluid to take a path through the left hand branch of the continuous or endless conduit Hi. The impeller I22 is driven at a rate of speed which will tend to impel fluid to the upper portion of the conduit I2I at a speed considerably greater than that required in the normal operation of the engine. tinuous circulation is set up in the continuous or endless conduit I2I, gaseous fluid being drawn off at the outlet ports I23 as required and a similar amount to that drawn off being taken into the continuous circulation at the inlet I24. Due to the presence of gaseous hydrocarbon fluid in the continuous conduit I2I and the rapid recirculation of this fluid in the conduit, it will be evident that each cylinder or combustion chamber as it requires its charge will receive the full benefit of such charge at the required period.

In addition, due to the continuous rapid circulation of the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid in the endless conduit I2I through the metallic filaments I21 disposed therein, such charges as are drawn into the cylinders or combustion chambers will be highly and efllciently vaporized and thoroughly mixed with air prior to their introduction into the cylinders or combustion chambers.

Under certain conditions, more or less abnormal, such as excessive high speed or the like for example, the rate of utilization or demand through the outlet ports I23 may exceed the rate of discharge of the impeller I22. In such a case recirculation will cease and the gas will be delivered to the outlets I-23 through two parallel paths or branches, both communicating with the inlet and outlet and with each other, the branch including the impeller I22 defining a supercharger path and the other branch I2I defining a suction path, both supplying gas to the outlets I23.

Referring now to Figure 3, I have illustrated a further modified form of intake manifold construction. This structure comprises the usual body portion I30 provided with outlet ports I3I and a centrally disposed inlet port I32. The vaporizer and mixer in accordance with the salient principles of this invention, is embodied in a second body portion I33 (which I have shown considerably enlarged relative to the body portion I30). Body portion I33 comprises a substantially circular continuous or endless conduit comprising an upper portion I34 and a lower portion I35. The lower end of inlet port I32 which may be connected to the upper portion I34 in any suitable manner, constitutes the outlet port of the upper portion I34 and is disposed centrally of said upper portion. The lower portion I35 has interposed therein a suitable impeller I36 and is provided with a suitable inlet port I31 disposed eccentrically with respect to the lower portion I35.

The vaporizer and mixer in this instance comprises a flexible cylindrical reticulated coarse mesh screen container I33 fllled with a loose mass ofpromiscuously intertwined metallic filaments I39 disposed in the upper portion I34 and ex- Thus when the engine is running, a contending substantially the entire length of this upper portion so that a portion of the screen container I33 extends across the opening of the lower end of inlet port I32. A butterfly control valve I40 is positioned in the inlet port I32 adjacent its lower end upon a transversely extending shaft I4 I one end of which extends outwardly beyond the outer periphery of the inlet port or conduit I32 and has secured thereto at one end thereof a lever I42, the other end 'of lever I42 being provided with a longitudinally extending slot I43.

In order to facilitate the description of this modification, I shall refer to that portion of the endless or continuous conduit disposed to the left of inlet port I31, the left hand branch, and that portion disposed to the right of inlet port I31 and extending up to the inlet port I32, the right hand branch.

A butterfly retarding valve I44 is mounted for rotative movement upon a pin I45 adjacent the lower end of the upper portion I34 in the right hand branch, and one end of the pin I45 extends outwardly beyond the outer periphery of the conduit.

Referring now more particularly to Figure 4, I have illustrated a novel control mechanism for the retarding valve I 44. A substantially U- shaped lever I46 has the legs thereof secured at their ends to the outwardly extending end of pin I45. A plunger I41 comprising a cylindrical rod I48 extending upwardly through the intermediate portion of the lever I46 is provided at its upper end with a carrier I49 positioned for sliding movement between the leg portions of lever I46 and has a lug I 49 projecting therefrom into a slot I50 provided in one leg of lever I46 and extending longitudinally thereof. An abutment plate I5I is disposed intermediate the legs of the lever I46 and is suitably secured thereto adjacent the upper end thereof in proximity to the pin I45. A coil spring I52 is positioned between the abutment plate I5I and the upper side of the .plunger portion and is adapted to normally exert a downward pressure upon the plunger portion thereby normally urging the rod I48 outwardly of the lower end of the lever I46. The lower end of lever I46 is provided with a fork I 53, the intermediate portion of which is integrally associated with the end of the rod I48, fork I53 carrying a roller I54 having end peripheral flanges such as I55, upon a transversely extending axle I56.

Roller I54 has engagement with a U-shaped cam lever I51 having slightly inwardly extending end portions I58, lever I51 being pivoted upon a pin I59 extending therethrough centrally thereof, and is provided with an outwardly extending arm I60 extending from the pivot portion thereof. Arm I60 is provided at its free end with a transverse recess I6I through which one end of a coil spring I62 extends, this coil spring being adapted to have its other end suitably anchored to a pin I63 suitably secured to the outer periphery of the continuous body portion I33. Another pin I64 is likewise suitably secured to the outer periphery of the body portion I33 and has a stop to limit the upward rotation of the arm I60. The extreme end of arm I 60 is provided with a laterally extending pin I65 which is adapted to have siding movement in a longitudinally extending slot I66 at the lower end of a control rod I 61 extending back to the interior of the body associated with the chassis frame upon which the engine is mounted for accessibility and controlled III) accents by either the hand or foot of an operator of the vehicle. Rod I61 has a rigid upwardly extending arm I68 positioned adjacent the lever I42, and the free end of arm I68 is provided with a suitable pin I68 extending into the slot I43 of lever I42.

- Impeller I36 is operatively associated with the water pump shaft or other driven part of the engine.

Due to the fact that the left hand branch of the body portion I33 is normally closed due to the stationary condition of the impeller I36 prior to the starting of the engine, the charge required by the engine is permitted to pass up through the right hand branch of the body portion I33. Thus at this time the retarding valve I44 is maintained in open condition for purposes of free passage of the carbureted hydrocarbon gaseous fluid through the right hand branch. When however the enginehas once begun to run and the impeller is being actuated, the charge will be transmitted through the left hand branch of the continuous body portion I 33 due to the influence of mempeller. The function of the impeller I36 being to impart a full charge to each of the cylinders or combustion chambers, it is then desirable to cut oil the right hand branch in order that the entire charge be transmitted directly to the body portion I30. Thus at the normal idling position of the control valve I40, the retarding valve I44 and its associated parts are in the full line position as illustrated in Figures 12 and 13. When it is desired to accelerate the engine, rod I61 is moved downwardly thereby opening the control valve I and when-rod I61 has moved to the extent that the upper end of slot I66 is in engagement with the pin I65, further downward movement of the rod I61 will swing the cam lever I51 about its pivot. Cam lever I 51 is so constructed that the roller due to the pressure of spring I52 upon the plunger portion of the rod I48 will always tend to seek a position in abutment with the end portion I58 after the roller has passed the central point of the cam lever. Thus as the arm I60 is swung downwardly by the rod I61 against the tension of spring I62, roller I61, owing to the inclination of the cam lever I 51 will ride in a direction toward the upper end portion I58 of the cam lever I51 and as soon-as it has passed the central point of the cam lever I51, the spring I52 will exert sufilcient pressure to automatically continue the swinging movement of the lever I46 in the upward direction, thus rotating the retarding valve I44 to the dotted line position illustrated in Figure 4.

When rod I61 is permitted to move upwardly, control valve I40 will return to the idling position and as soon as the lower end of the slot I66 abuts the pin I65 on arm I60, the lever I51 will be rotated about its pivot clockwise as viewed in Figure 13 causing the roller I54 to ride downwardly therealong and to automatically abut the lower end I58 of cam lever I 51 after it has passed the center of the lever I51. Thus upon opening of the control valve I40 slightly beyond idling position, retarding valve I44 will be automatically closed cutting off the right hand branch of the body portion I33 and permitting the impeller to assume the transmission andimpulsion of carbureted hydrocarbon fluid to the combustion chambers at speeds above idling speed, and when the control valve I40 is returned to idling position, retarding valve I44 will be automatically returned to open position whereby the charge will be 'conducted'through the right hand branch of the body portion I33 to the cylinders or co'mbustion chambers.

Owing to the position of the screen container I38 and its associated filaments I39 in the upper portion I34, it will be at once apparent that the vaporizer and mixer will function to efficiently vaporize and mix the air and gaseous hydrocarbon fluid being conducted through either the right or left hand branches of the body portion I 33. It will be further evident, that this modifled form of intake manifold construction is particularly desirable where it'is desired that the engine have prompt or quick pickup which is accomplished by imparting additional inomentum to the hydrocarbon particles and air or the mixture prior to their introduction into the combustion chamber or cylinder so that the charges will be introduced into the cylinders or combustion chambers under pressure. Thus during that period of running of the engine when full charges to the combustion chambers or cylinders are most desirable, each cylinder will receive the full benefit of the charge under pressure. During the idling period, when only a small charge is required, each cylinder will only receive a minimum charge since the impeller will be ineffective at this timeand the charge will therefore be the result merely of the suction of the pistons of the cylinders.

It may be desirable to employ an intake mania fold construction which provides for automatic control of a recirculating vaporizer and mixer and for such a device, reference may be had to Figure 5. As in the case of the modification disclosed in Figures 3 and 4, the distributing conduit body portion employed is of the character designated at I30 in Figure 3. In this case the body portion I10 comprises an upper portion I1I similar in character to portion I34 of the previous modification and having at its uppermost part an outlet port I12 containing a butterfly control valve I13. Disposed within this upper portion In is a flexible reticulated coarse mesh screen container I14 filled with a loose mass of promiscuously intertwined metallic filaments I15, the screen container I14 having a portion thereof extending across the opening of the outlet port I 12. The lower portion of the body portion I10 comprises two sections I16 and I11, section I16 being provided with a suitable impeller I18 while section I 11 is provided with a check valve or retarding valve I19 and an inlet port or conduit I80. Sections I1I, I16 and I11 are suitably connected together and form a substantially cylindrical continuous or endless conduit or circular cross section and circular configuration.

Section I11 is provided with a partition I8I extending transversely thereacross at a point adjacent the connection between the upper end of section I11 and the upper portion I1I. Partition I8I is provided with a valve seat I82 and is tapered at this seat to snugly seat a valve head I83 of the retarding valve I 18. Valve head I83 is supported for reciprocating movement upon a rod or stem I84 which is in turn supported-in suitable bracket I85.

A coil spring I 86 has its upper end in abutment with a collar I81 in proximity to the head I82 and surrounds the stem I84, having its lower end seated upon the upper face of the lower bracket I85. This spring I86 is adapted to constantly normally urge the valve head I 83 into position upon its seat I82.

Impeller I18 in this case is preferably independently driven at a speed which will cause it to impart additional momentum to the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid charge normally demanded by the combustion chambers or cylinders at the.

various speeds of the engine.

In operation, with the control or throttle valve I13 in idling position, the impeller I19 is set in motion prior to starting of the engine. At this time those cylinders or combustion chambers whose pistons are on their downward or suction strokes will be filled with charges of gaseous hydrocarbon fluid under pressure and upon filling of those cylinders, a pressure is set up in the left hand branch of the body portion I10 and in the upper portion of the right hand branch above the retarding valve I19.

When sufllcient pressure has been built up in the aforementioned portions of the body portion I10 to overcome the upward pressure of the coil spring I86, retarding valve I19 will be automatically opened. and continuous circulation set up in the endless body portion I10. When the control or throttle valve I13 is further opened upon starting of the engine, it will be apparent that the demand for suflicient charges to the combustion chambers or cylinders at this time will be greater than normal and the pressure in the aforementioned portions of the body portion I10 will be considerably relieved permitting automatic closing of the retarding valve I19. During this interval, the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid will be impelled to the combustion chambers or cylinders by the impeller I18 under pressure. When the engine is running and consuming only normal operating charges, pressure will be again built up in the left hand branch of the conduit I10 and the upper portion of the right hand branch sufliciently to again open the retarding valve I19 and set up continuous circulation of the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid in the body portion I10. During the running of the engine, when an excessive demand is imposed upon the circulating gaseous hydrocarbon fluid such as is required for quick pickup, the retarding valve I19 will again automatically close and the excessive demand accommodated by the action of the impeller I19 by the impulsion thereof of gaseous hydrocarbon fluid under pressure. Thus the modifled form of intake manifold of the instant construction will normally operate as a recirculating pressure vaporizer and mixer and under excessive demand by the combustion chambers or cylinders of the engine will automatically operate to induce charges to the combustion chambers or cylinders under pressure. p

In Figures 6 and 7 I have disclosed another modified form of intake manifold construction embodying the principles of the instant invention in the nature of an attachment for manifolds of present construction together with a novel control means for the retarding valve. In this case, the vaporizer and mixer comprises a unit I interposed between the usual intake manifold I9I and the usual carburetor I92. Unit I90 comprises an inlet port I93 and an outlet port I94 having a continuous or endless body portion I95 disposed therebetween. The body portion I95 has interposed therein two vaporizers and mixers I96 and I91 of arcuate shape, vaporizer and mixer I96 being disposed in the upper portion of the body portion I95 and extending across the outlet port I94 while vaporizer and mixer I91 is disposed in the lower portion of the body portion I95 and extends across-the inlet port I93. As in the case of the preceding modifications where the body portion comprises a substantially circular continuous member, vapo'rizers and mixers I96 and I91 comprise flexible reticulated coarse mesh screen containers I98 and I99, respectively, each being fllled with promiscuously intertwined metallic fllaments 200 and 21 respectively. Vaporizers and mixers I96 and I91 are each of sufflcient lengths to occupy approximately onefourth veach of the body portion I95. As viewed in Figure 6, the body portion I95 between the left hand ends of the Vaporizers and mixers I96 and I91, is provided with an impeller 202 which for purposes of simplifying the disclosure is herein merely diagrammatically illustrated, the impeller 202 being of the rotary blower type. Impeller 202 is, of course, so positioned as to impel the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid mixture from the carburetor I92 to the manifold I9I. The impeller in this case is operated by any suitable connection to the water pump shaft, fan shaft, or other suitable moving parts. The impeller 202 may also be driven by other means, such as an air jet turbine, electric motor or any other suitable or available means, as desired.

In the right hand branch of the body portion I95 between the right hand ends of the vaporizers and mixers I96 and I91, there is disposed a novel side hinged retarding valve 203. This valve comprises a plate portion 204 suitably hinged to the outer right hand side of the body portion I95 by means of a pin 205, and has a portion thereof extending into the conduit of the body portion I96 on one side of the pivot pin 205 and another portion extending outwardly of the body portion I95 on the other side of the pivot pin 205. A gu de plate 206 suitably secured to the outer periphery of the body portion I95 extends radially outwardly and circumferentially of the body portion in proximity to the normal sweep of the outer end of the plate portion 204. This guide plate 206 is provided at its ends and upon its outer arcuate edge with radially outwardly projecting lugs 201. and adjacent its upper end has a notch 208. The outer end of the retarding valve plate 204 carries thereon a double acting sliding roller 209 carried by a slidable carriage 2|0 suitably slidably connnected to the outer end of the retarding valve portion 204 as by means of a pin and slot connection 2I I, roller 209 being adapted to ride along the outer arcuate edge of the guide plate 206. The carriage 2I0 is normally spring projected toward the pivot pin 205 by means of a spring 2I2 whereby the roller 209 is constantly urged into engagement with the outer edge of the guide plate 206. Adjacent the extreme outer end of the retarding valve portion 204, a control rod 2I3 has one end thereof extending through a recess 2 I4 in the portion 204 and is provided at its extreme end with a suitable stop member 2I5. A second stop member 2l6 is also suitably supported upon the rod 2I3 in spaced relation to the stop member 2I5, these stopmembers being disposed on either side of the outer end of the retarding valve portion 204 and permitting lost motion between the rod 2" and the said end portion 204 of the retarding valve. The inner end of the plate portion 204 of the retarding valve is adapted in closed position to abut a suitable stop seat 2I1 provided on the inner periphery of the right hand branch of the conduit of the body portion I 95.

, A coil spring 2I0 is suitably anchored to the outer periphery of the body portion I95 at one end thereof and has its other end suitably connected with the outer end of the retarding valve usual starting motor.

portion 204 to normally urge the retarding-valve to close position.

Control rod 2I3 extends upwardly and rearwardly into the body portion of the vehicle preferably through the instrument board thereof for manual operation by the operator of the vehicle.

Assuming that the engine is at a standstill priorto starting, the control rod 2I3 is pulled by the operator of the vehicle in the direction of the arrow in Figure 15. The lower stop member 2| 5 upon engaging the outer end of the retarding valve portion 204, will move the valve to the full line position illustrated in Figures and 16 against the tension of the coil spring 2 I8. when the roller 209 reaches the lower edge of the notch 208, its spring 2I2 will cause it to drop into the notch 200 and thereby retain the retarding valve in said open position. The control rod 2I3 may then be moved in a direction opposite to that indicated by the arrow until the operator feels that the upper stop member 2I6 is in abutment with the outer end of the retarding valve portion 204. The engine may then be started in the usual manner that is by the energization of the Since the left hand branch of the body portion I95 is substantially closed on by the inactivity of the impeller 202 dur'ng the starting period, the hydrocarbon gaseous fluid mixture may freely pass through the vaporizer and mixer I91, the right hand branch of the body portion I95, the vaporizer and mixer I 90, and up into the manifold I9I. As soon as the eng'ne has begun running, the impeller 202 will operate at a speed sufficient to cause the gase- Eous hydrocarbon fluid mixture to be conducted through the left hand branch of the body portion I95, and at this time the control rod 2I3 may be further pushed by the operator in a direction opposite to that indicated by the arrow in Figure 6 thereby unseating the roller 209 from the notch 200 and permitting the coil spring 2! to swing the retarding valve to closed position in abutment with the stop seat 2" at which time roller 209 will rest upon the curved convex edge of the guide plate 206.

Additional Vaporizers and mixers 55 may be provided in the outlet ports of the manifold I9I to provide additional atomizing of the gaseous fluid and to insure of vaporization and mixing to a maximum degree of efliciency.

Thus during the starting period, the retarding valve 203 of the instant modified form of unit I90 permits of free passage of the fuel mixture into the intake manifold ISI while during the running of the engine, the impeller 202 goes into action and impels the gaseous fluid to each of the cylinders or combustion chambers in such a mannor as to give each of the cylinders or combustion chambers the full benefit of the charge at all times.

Referring now more particularly to Figures 8 and 9, I have disclosed therein a further modified form of intake manifold embodying the principles of the instant invention, in which parts thereof have been illustrated more or less dia-.

grammatically. In the modified form of intake manifold construction disclosed in the instant figures, the manifold comprises a body portion 250 constituting a continuous or endless conduit the upper portion of which is provided with outlet ports I suitably secured to the usual block or head 252 of an internal combustion engine. The lower portion of the continuous body 250 is provided with a centrally disposed inlet port 253 suitably connected with the outlet port 254 of the usual carbureter. The left hand branch of the body portion 200 contains an impeller 255 of the rotary blower type which forpurposas of.

258 either in the nature of steel shavings or steel wool.

The intake manifold of the instant illustration may be caused to function in one of two ways at the selection of the user. It may be employed as a. recirculation pressure vaporizer and mixer or as a pressure vaporizer and mixer. In the former case, the valve 250 is maintained in closed position during the starting period and the impeller energized independently of any moving part of the engine prior to the starting to iniiialy impel a charge or charges to those cylinders or combustion chambers whose pistons are on their downward or intake strokes.

When the engine has once started, the valve 250 is immediately opened and the mixture of air and gaseous hydrocarbon fluid in the body portion 250 continuously recirculated and drawn ofl through the outlet ports 25I to the cylinders or combustion chambers as required. In the second case, where the impeller 255 is operatively associated with some moving part on the engine, the valve 256 is maintained in open position to permit of the passage of initial charges to the cylinders or combustion chambers of the engine during the usual starting period. As soon as the engine begins to run, the valve 256 may be suitably closed either manually or automatically, and the impeller 255 then takes up the burden of supplying a suflicient mixture of air and gaseous hydrocarbon fluid to the cylinders or combustion chambers under pressure.

Due to the fact that in the event that this modified form of intake manifold is employed merely as a pressure vaporizer and mixer, certain of the cylinders would be remotely disposed with reference to the inlet port 253 and in the event that the manifold of the instant construction would be employed as a recirculating pressure vaporizer and mixer, the positioning of a throttle or control-valve in the inlet port 253 would be rather remote for eifectively controlling the gaseous fluid intake to the cylinders or combustion chambers for accelerating and decelerating the speed of the engine, I have provided a novel throttle or control valve means. Generally speaking, this comprises the positioning of the speed control element in proximity to the cylinders or combustion chambers.

In carrying out this novel control mechanism, I have provided a butterfly control or throttle valve 259 in each of the outlet ports 25l, preferably for rotary movement about vertical axes or shaft 260. A series of upwardly extending bell crank levers 26I either suitably secured to the upper ends of the axes or shafts 200 or constituting continuations of the upper ends of the axes or shafts 260 formed integrally therewith, have upper ends suitably connected together for movement in unison by means of a connecting rod 262. Rod 262 extends to the inner side of the vehicle body for accessibility and control .by the operator of the vehicle and may have two branches. one, extending to the instrument channel board for control by the hand of an operator, and the other extending to the toe board for operation by the foot of the operator, the two branches being suitably arranged for independent manipulation in any desired well known manner.

By placing the throttle or control valves 259 in the outlet ports I, they are capable of prompt and effective control of the flow of gaseous hydrocarbon fluid th the cylinders or combustion chambers at points where they will most effectively promptly operate to suddenly increase or decrease the flow of the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid thereby causing the engine to be promptly responsive to the desires of an operator of a vehicle as occasion demands.

As has been hereinbefore stated in the brief descriptions of the various embodiments of my invention, I have found that the usual intake manifolds now generally employed, where they are separate from the exhaust manifolds, may be readily inverted by placing the inlet port or conduit thereof in a direction pointing upwardly instead of downwardly as is now the custom. By moving the usual carburetor to a position above the body of the intake manifold and interposing between the outlet port of the carburetor and the inlet port of the manifold, a direction change conduit, it is possible to convert the usual manifold now generally employed from an up-draft manifold to one of the downdraft type. It is to be understood, therefore, that all of the above described structures are equally as applicable to down draft carburetion systems as to the more conventional systems. However, as has been hereinbefore pointed out, a mere inversion of such manifolds, while certain advantages accrue therefrom, will not eliminate the formation of large globules of hydrocarbon fluid due to condensation of the fluid along the walls of the conduits. By embodying the salient feature of the present invention in such an intake manifold, however,

complete vaporization and mixing of the gaseous hydrocarbon fluid in and with the air stream may be advantageously accomplished.

Referring now generally to all the modifications disclosed, since each and all of them employ vaporizers and mixers in accordance with the main feature of the instant invention, an oil feed dropping mechanism may be employed with the intake manifolds disclosed, particularly with those of the recirculating pressure type, for lubricating valve stems and the upper portions of the combustion chambers or cylinders.

It is to be further noted that the metallic filaments may be made from rust proof metal and where filaments of this character are employed, water may be introduced into the intake manifold and thoroughly worked or vaporized by the air and hydrocarbon gaseous fluid stream, particularly with internal combustion engines, so as to gain slow, long drawn-out explosions in the cylinders or combustion chambers. The advantages of the introduction of water vapor into an admixture of hydrocarbon gaseous fluid and air for combustion purposes in internal combustion engines is well known and will therefore not be herein discussed.

While I have illustrated various embodiments of my invention, the main feature of the invention is the introduction of a novel agent for attaining complete and positive breaking up, cutting up, or shredding of hydrocarbon gaseous fluid globules which tend to form and accumulate in intake manifolds adapted to conduct hydrocarbon gaseous fluid mixtures to combustion chambers. This novel feature comprises the interposition in various portions of the'conduits of manifolds in the path of flow of the gaseous fluid of metallic filaments in the nature of parings of steel. It is to be noted that such parings may comprise various grades from coarse steel shavings to fine steel wool. The parings need not be of fixed or definite proportions and size throughout but may be of irregular contour or cross section and various grades of parings may be combined in any form in any of the embodiments illustrated.

It is also to be observed that the presence of the filamentary material acts as a filter in catching and retaining road dirt and the like, thus preventing cylinder scouring, valve pitting and other road dirt annoyances, and also serves to dampen the propagation of noises originating in the valves. Further, the presence of the filamentary material aids in securing easy starting, the material acting somewhat as a wick or absorbing medium in that a certain amount of fluid is always present by virtue of capillary attraction exerted by the filaments. The screen or cartridge containing the material is removable and can'be replaced when dirty or clogged.

The filamentous metal may be of nickel steel of such strength so as not to crumble due to excessive fluid draft therethrough and in the case where they are employed in intake manifolds of internal combustion engines, they should be of sufficient strength to withstand vibration and consequent physical impacts relative to one an- 1 other due to the vibrations and pulsations of the engine.

While I have disclosed variously shaped containers for retaining the filamentous metal in the path of fluid draft, it will be understood that the shapes of these containers may be widely varied without departing from the essence of the invention. Instead of being spherical or cylindrical in form, the containers may be of frusto-eonical formation or of any irregular contour or configuration so as to readily accommodate themselves to the configurations of the places where they are adapted to be seated.

Due to the promiscuous intertwining of the metallic filaments in a loose mass providing passages or interstitial spaces extending promiscuously therethrough, it will be apparent that a fluid stream traveling therethrough is thrown helter skelter therefrom. This volleying of the fluid stream in a conduit results in a clean sweeping of the walls of the conduit thereby preventing accumulations of hydrocarbon fluid thereon. Then too, by providing metallic filaments in a loose mass, no material obstruction or back pressure result to the fluid stream.

A further feature of importance is the simplicity of construction and the cheapness of manufacture of the various embodiments of the invention.

The advantages and results of the employment of metallic filaments of the character of steel shavings or steel wool for shredding the globules of gaseous hydrocarbon fluid thereby thoroughly vaporizing and mixing the carbureted fluid, may be briefly summarized as follows:

Economy of fuel consumption due to perfect combustion;

Perfect combustion and consequent carbonization reduction;

Easier and faster cold weather starting of internal combustion engines;

Prevention of back-fire from reaching carburet'er; .and

Permits of use of cruder fuel.

While I have disclosed various modifications or embodiments of my invention, I do not wish to be limited thereto. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, certain changes other than those above outlined may be made therein without departing from the essence of the, invention or the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

What I claim and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. In combination, an intake manifold comprising a body portion having a series of outlet conduits extending therefrom, a gaseous fluid vaporizer and mixer for liquid fuel comprising an elongated promiscuously intertwined loose mass of metallic filaments and an elongated flexible reticulated container therefor disposed in and adapted to conform to the shape of said body portion and in operative association with each of said outlet conduits, an inlet conduit associated with said body portion, and an impeller associated with said inlet conduit for maintaining a uniform distribution of vaporized fluid to said outlet conduits.

2. An intake manifold comprising an endless conduit, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit, a fluid mixer in said endless conduit, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, and a retarding mechanism for controlling the flow of fluid through said endless conduit and operative to maintain a substantially constant pressure in the portions of said endless conduit in which said fluid mixer is disposed.

3. An intake manifold comprising an endless conduit, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit, a fluid mixer in said endless conduit, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, and a retarding mechanism for controlling the flow of fluid through said endless conduit, said retarding mechanism comprising valve means operative to vary the amount of circulation according to the pressure in said outlet conduit.

4. A recirculating pressure gaseous vaporizer and mixer for liquid fuel comprising an intake manifold comprising ,an endless conduit, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, and biased valve means operative to provide for circulation of fluid in the inlet conduit only when the pressure therein exceeds a given value.

5. A recirculating pressure gaseous vaporizer and mixer for liquid fuel comprising an intake manifold comprising an endless conduit, an inlet conduit, an outlet conduit, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, an elongated'mass of promiscuously intertwined loose mass of metallic filaments disposed in said endless conduit, one end of said elongated mass of metallic filaments being disposed adjacent the impeller, and valve means disposed adjacent the other end of said mass of filaments and operative to govern the 75 circulation of fluid in said endless conduit.

6. A recirculating pressure gaseous vaporizer and mixer for liquid fuel comprising an endless conduit, an inlet conduit, outlet conduit means, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, means for varying the fluid demand on said outlet conduit means, and means associated therewith for controlling the circulation in said endless conduit.

7. Arecirculating pressure gaseous vaporizer and mixer for liquid fuel comprising an endless conduit, an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit, both connected with said endless conduit, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, a promiscuously intertwined loose mass of metallic filaments disposed adjacent said outlet conduit, a throttle valve in said outlet conduit adjacent said mass of metallic filaments and operative to determine the demand on said endless conduit, and valve means for controlling the circulation in said endless conduit.

8. A recirculating pressure gaseous vaporizer and mixer for liquid fuel comprising an intake manifold including an inlet connection, an outlet connection, a curved branched circuit including two connected arcuate branches communicating with the inlet and outlet connections, means in each of said branches for striating a fluid stream, said means comprising a curved cartridge having a portion disposed in each of said arcuate branches, and an impeller in one of said branches disposed adjacent one end of one of said cartridge portions and arranged to direct gas toward said outlet connection through the portion of said striating means in said one branch, said other branch affording direct communication between said inlet and outlet whereby gas may flow through both of said branches toward the outlet connection when the demand at the outlet exceeds the discharge of said impeller, the impeller acting to circulate the surplus gas throughsaid branches when the discharge from said impeller exceeds the demand at the outlet.

9. In combination with an internal combustion engine having inlet valves and a manifold to said inlet valves, of combustible mixture producing means including a carburetor, and two connecting conduits between the mixture producing means and the manifold, each of said connecting conduits having means therein for striating a fluid stream, and oneof said connecting conduits having fluid propelling means therein.

10. In combination with an internal combustion engine having inlet valves and a manifold communicating therewith, of combustible mixture producing means including a carburetor and two connecting .conduits between the mixture producing means and the manifold, said conduit having therein means for striating a fluid stream, and one of said connecting conduits having fluid propelling means therein and the other of said connecting conduits having a flow restriction therein in communication with the discharge from said propelling means.

11. In combination with an internal combustion engine having inlet'valves and a manifold communicating therewith, of combustible mixture producing means including a carburetor and two connecting conduits between the mixture producing means and the manifold, means in both of said connecting conduits for striating a fluid stream, said means comprising a filamentary cartridge having portions disposed in both of said 10 conduit and the outlet end of said outlet conduit s eaves for controlling the amount of fluid withdrawn through the latter from the inlet conduit, an impeller associated with said endless conduit for normally maintaining gaseous fluid in rapid circulation in said endless conduit, and separate valve means disposed in said endless conduit and serving to govern the pressure developed therein by said impeller.

HERBERT E. BUCKLEN. w 

